Bed bug infestations are a less than ideal problem for South Carolina, a state renowned for its beautiful scenery and extensive history. The comfort of households and the hospitality sector are being negatively impacted by these microscopic pests in a number of the state’s largest cities.
In addition to discussing the steps being done to address the problem, this article will highlight three South Carolina cities that are disproportionately impacted by bed bugs.
Greenville
According to a survey by Orkin, Greenville has been named as one of the worst cities in the United States for bed bugs. With a noteworthy rise in bed bug treatments from December 1, 2022, to November 30, 2023, the city came in at number 27 overall.
Residents and visitors to Greenville are equally concerned about the incidence of bed bugs, which has led to increased awareness and preventive measures.
Charleston
Charleston, a well-liked tourist destination and city recognized for its historic charm, is currently dealing with bed insect infestations. Charleston has become a top destination for bed bugs due to the large number of visitors who unintentionally carry the pests with them from other places.
There are initiatives in place to teach the general public and hospitality industry how to identify and stop the spread of bed bugs.
Columbia
Even the state capital of Columbia is not exempt from the bed insect problem. Columbia is proactively tackling the bed bug issue because of its diversified population and plenty of guest accommodations.
Campaigns to raise awareness and supply resources for efficient pest management are the main foci of public health initiatives.
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How Can Bed Bugs Be Kept Out of Your House?
Although infestations of bed bugs might be an annoyance, there are a few steps you can do to keep them out of your house. The following are some doable actions:
Inspect Used Furniture: Be sure to thoroughly inspect used sofas, beds, and other furniture for indications of bed bug infestation before bringing them into your house. Being meticulous while inspecting used objects is crucial because bed bugs may survive for up to a year without nourishment.
Employ Covers: Cover your box springs and mattresses to keep them safe. Think about purchasing a prepared mattress cover to avoid pests. If you want to make it simpler to identify bed bugs, go for a plain, light-colored cover.
Declutter: Disorganized spaces provide bed bugs a place to hide. To reduce their possible hiding locations, regularly declutter your home.
Read Also: Bed Bugs Spread Rampantly Across Three Illinois Urban Centers
Regular vacuuming aids in the removal of any bed bugs that may be hitchhiking. Bed bugs like to hide in gaps, crevices, and seams, so pay attention to them.
Common Laundry Areas: Exercise caution when using communal laundry areas. Examine your laundry space and steer clear of putting your mattress or clothing right next to potential bed insect breeding grounds.
Read Also: Infestation Alert: 3 California Urban Centers Plagued by Bed Bugs
Recall that bed bugs are not able to withstand extremely high or low temperatures. Bed insect removal from clothing and bedding can be achieved naturally using techniques including steam cleaning, hot washes, and high heat drying. You may also eliminate bed bugs by freezing tiny items in the freezer.
Bed bugs like to hide in cracks and crevices, so for bigger areas, try applying natural bed bug sprays prepared from aromatic oils or diatomaceous earth powder. By taking these preventative measures, you can maintain a bed bug-free home!
Read Also: 3 New Mexico Cities Where Bed Bugs Are More Common
To Conclude
Although people and the hotel industry in South Carolina face challenges due to bed bugs, the state is actively working on solutions. You may drastically lower your chance of having a bed bug infestation by implementing the preventative steps listed above.
Recall that the best defense against these unwanted visitors to your South Carolina house is prevention. Thus, be alert, exercise caution, and savor the breathtaking landscape and rich history that South Carolina has to offer!
